Shopping in Southwell through the Decades

On Sunday 12th June shops throughout Southwell opened for a Summer Shopping Celebration to coincide with the Queen's 90th birthday.

This special event included a craft market, morris dancing, singing by the Lowe's Wong and Holy Trinity school choirs, the first performance by the Kelham Workplace Choir and special offers in the shops. All rounded off by a Tea Dance in the library.

Whilst no shop has been open for the whole 90 years of the Queen's life there are several which have enjoyed decades of trading in the town. Today they remain favourite shopping destinations for both loyal customers and visitors alike and are joined by more recently established retail businesses. All have their own reasons to celebrate!

The Old Theatre Deli may only be six years old but its upstairs stage area dates back to Georgian times making it the business with the oldest premises. Pinders Opticians on Queen Street was first established in 1946 and 70 years on it continues to provide high quality eye care.

Two businesses began in the 1970s – the Handicentre in 1973 and Benets Menswear, now Real Clothing, in 1975. Even in the day of huge DIY stores the Handicentre's thousands of products and personal service cannot be rivalled. Real Clothing, now with branches for both men and women, has seen many changing styles in 40 years but has thrived by always following the latest lines in fashion.

In the mid-1980s Woodlanders furniture and toyshop first opened and remains popular for its selection of toys and books for children of all ages.Gossips Coffee House celebrates its 30th birthday this summer and for many is a favourite destination for coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and homemade cakes. Burleys gift shop also celebrated its 19th birthday with a special celebration to mark its many years of providing greetings cards and unique gifts.

Alongside these long established businesses is an ever-developing range of newer shops. The very latest is Homebake on Kings Street, a youthful four months old! Call in for all your cake-making needs and guaranteed inspiration. Two others which were neighbours until last month have now expanded. Mr and Mrs Fine Wine have left Queen Street to open at the old HSBC premises on Church Street and become The Wine Bank, making way for Carnill & Co to double in size next door.

All the traders look forward to seeing you; as customers you will ensure that Southwell remains a much loved and admired shopping destination for decades to come.